Gabriel Martinelli to Link Up with Harry Kane?

Bayern Munich Plotting Shock Swoop for Arsenal Winger as Brazilian Set to Be Part of Mikel Arteta’s Summer Clear-Out

Could Gabriel Martinelli really swap the red of Arsenal for the red of Bayern Munich this summer? In a transfer window that’s already seen plenty of twists and surprises, this potential move might just be the most eye-catching of them all. The Brazilian winger, long regarded as one of Arsenal’s brightest attacking sparks, is reportedly being eyed by the Bundesliga giants—and not just as a Plan B.

A Bayern Shake-Up: Searching for a New Spark

According to German outlet BILD and journalist Christian Falk, Bayern Munich have shifted their attention to Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli after failing to lock down a move for Nico Williams of Athletic Club. The Spanish international appears to be heading to Barcelona instead, leaving Bayern’s new-look attack—with Harry Kane as the central figure—searching for a left-sided winger to provide creativity, pace, and goals.

Enter Gabriel Martinelli.

The Brazilian international has built a strong reputation in the Premier League for his high-energy play style, lethal counter-attacking ability, and knack for scoring in big moments. It’s not hard to see why Bayern, a club looking to evolve its front line, would be interested.

Arsenal’s Summer Clear-Out: Big Names on the Move

The story doesn’t end with Bayern’s interest, though. According to The Times, Arsenal are preparing for a significant summer shake-up. After two consecutive seasons of title challenges that just fell short, Mikel Arteta is planning a squad refresh—and that includes trimming the wage bill.

Several players are reportedly up for sale, including Oleksandr Zinchenko, Reiss Nelson, Jakub Kiwior, Fabio Vieira, Albert Sambi Lokonga… and yes, Gabriel Martinelli.

This revelation has shocked some fans. After all, Gabriel Martinelli has often been viewed as part of Arsenal’s long-term future. But football moves fast. With the club aiming to fund further reinforcements—particularly in midfield and defense—hard decisions have to be made. And selling a player like Gabriel Martinelli, who still holds strong market value, could bring in the kind of money Arsenal need.

A Look at the Numbers: Why Gabriel Martinelli Still Has Serious Market Pull

Newcastle United v Arsenal – Carabao Cup Semi Final Second Leg

Martinelli, still only 24, has been with Arsenal since 2019. Signed for a modest fee from Ituano in Brazil, he quickly won over fans with his tenacity, flair, and eye for goal. In six seasons at the Emirates, the winger has racked up 225 appearances, scoring 51 goals in all competitions.

Those aren’t astronomical numbers, but they’re solid—especially when you factor in his age, role in the team, and the fact that he’s been rotated or played in different tactical setups under Arteta. His best seasons came when Arsenal pushed for the Premier League title in 2022–23 and again in 2024–25, with Gabriel Martinelli often occupying that left flank with a mix of explosiveness and discipline.

His current contract runs until 2027, giving Arsenal full control over his future and the upper hand in any transfer negotiations. According to The Athletic, the Gunners will demand more than £50 million (€67m) from any club seeking to land the Brazilian.

Bayern’s Fit: Where Would Gabriel Martinelli Play?

This isn’t just a transfer rumor built on hype—it actually makes sense tactically. Bayern have long been reliant on wide players to stretch defenses and create space for their strikers. With Leroy Sané’s form inconsistent and Serge Gnabry battling injuries and inconsistencies, the left-wing role is ripe for reinforcement.

Martinelli could slide into that position seamlessly, offering directness, speed, and a tireless work ethic. His chemistry with Harry Kane could be a key factor, too. With Kane dropping deeper at times and Gabriel Martinelli making inverted runs from the wing, there’s potential for a dynamic attacking partnership.

There’s also the added appeal of Gabriel Martinelli bringing a new energy to a Bayern squad that, at times last season, looked a bit stale—especially in European competition. And while the Bundesliga offers a different style of play than the Premier League, it’s hard to imagine a player with Gabriel Martinelli’s attributes not thriving in a more open and attacking league.

Arsenal’s Dilemma: Risk vs. Reward

Arsenal FC Training Session And Press Conference – UEFA Champions League 2024/25 Semi Final Second Leg

From Arsenal’s perspective, selling Gabriel Martinelli isn’t without risk. He’s still young, already proven in England, and a player with clear upside. Letting him go to a European rival—especially one as prestigious as Bayern—could backfire if he flourishes in Germany.

However, if Arteta and Edu believe they can reinvest that £50m+ wisely, the sale might make sense. Arsenal have already been linked with attacking reinforcements like Pedro Neto and Johan Bakayoko—players who could offer different profiles on the flanks. There’s also Bukayo Saka’s role to consider, along with the emergence of young winger Amario Cozier-Duberry from the academy.

In short, Arsenal may be moving away from Gabriel Martinelli not because he isn’t good enough—but because their tactical evolution requires a different type of player.

Martinelli’s View: A Fresh Start or Unfinished Business?

What does Gabriel Martinelli himself want? That’s the biggest question of all.

By all accounts, he’s happy in London. He’s settled. He has a close bond with Arteta and has spoken publicly about how much he’s grown under the Spaniard’s coaching. But he’s also ambitious. He wants to be a guaranteed starter, a difference-maker, and perhaps a Champions League winner.

Bayern can offer him a new challenge, one where he plays in a dominant domestic team with legitimate European ambitions. The chance to link up with Harry Kane, Jamal Musiala, and others in a star-studded attack could be difficult to pass up.

And from a national team perspective, showcasing his talents on the Champions League stage could boost his standing with Brazil’s national team setup, where competition for wide attacking spots is always fierce.

What’s Next for Gabriel Martinelli and Arsenal?

For now, everything remains speculative. Arsenal are enjoying a well-earned summer break after a grueling season. The squad will regroup under Arteta’s guidance in late July, before heading to Asia for a pre-season tour. Whether Gabriel Martinelli boards that plane or not may tell us everything we need to know.

If Bayern make a formal bid in the coming weeks, expect negotiations to move quickly. Arsenal won’t let the saga drag on—they’ll want clarity before pre-season kicks off in earnest.

Final Thoughts: A Transfer That Makes Sense for Everyone?

It’s rare to see a potential transfer that could suit all parties. But this one might.

For Bayern, Gabriel Martinelli is the profile they need: fast, experienced, and still young. For Arsenal, a big sale could unlock moves for priority signings. For Gabriel Martinelli, it’s a chance to step into a new chapter—one filled with silverware potential and Champions League nights.

Of course, this is football. Nothing is certain until the ink dries and the jersey is held up. But if you’re a fan of big, bold transfers, keep your eyes on this one. Because Gabriel Martinelli to Bayern Munich might just be the most quietly significant move of the summer.